If You Are Struggling

If you are struggling friend, I see you. Your mental health matters. You are more than your depression.

I see you working so hard to keep your head above the waves. Sometimes depression feels like an ocean – embing and flowing and slowly eroding away at the stone. Mental health can get so heavy at times. Other times it can feel like the rapids of a river, washing the good away downstream where it might be hard to feel it or see it. Depression is tough, but you are tougher.

If you are struggling, I see you.

There is no shame in seeking help. There is no shame in admitting to the struggle. Some of the bravest, strongest people I know have struggled with so many unspoken battles. Your mental health is so important.

I want you to know that your feelings are valid. You are entitled to your feelings. There are so many resources out there and I know sometimes it feels dark and heavy to discuss mental health, but share your load friends – we can help ease your burden.

Your Mental Health Matters

Fear keeps us silent, and drives us to the depths of our madness, so I want you to know that no matter how deep your darkness may lie – I see you. I know that you may feel tired and weary, but my inbox is open.

When it’s hard to see the light, let me shine a flashlight.

If you are struggling, I see you. Let’s struggle together.

Share These With Someone Who May Need This Today

Here are a few mental health quotes that resonated with me, share them with someone who may need to hear them.

I remember when I first started sharing about my mental health it felt like it was such a burden. I felt so isolated and I didn’t understand why my brain didn’t work in tandem with my body. Now that I’m older I know that I was in a constant state of fight, flight, or freeze for over 18 years, my body wasn’t getting the nutrients that I needed, I wasn’t implementing a consistent and healthy wellness routine, and I was lacking the proper tools and skills to regulate my body and my emotions when I was in a state of disregulation – honestly, depression had a much deeper hold on me than I thought.

What Have I Taken From My Experience With Mental Health?

I’ve learned over the years that no matter what, you truly don’t know someone’s battle. I talked about this in my blog awhile back about my friend Taylor, he lost is battle with depression and it forever changed my life Mental health battles happen to so many people. It affects people from all walks of life, all genders and races, and it does not take pity on anyone.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned that being kind is so crucial. I will say, this was not always something that I did and it took a lot of hard lessons for me to begin focusing on this. I learned that everyone’s battle is proportional. To you, that battle may be the worst thing you’ve ever experienced, while to others’ its a Tuesday. It doesn’t negate the impact and role that this event plays in your life.

Something else that I have come to realize on my mental health journey is that life doesn’t happen TO you. You don’t move through life passively. Life happens, but you have the power to counteract and control your thoughts and emotions. Is it any easy take? Absolutely not. Mental health and depression is a TOUGH TOUGH subject to breach – but the more you work on your mental health, the easier it becomes.

There are so many incredible resources out there, and as a mental health advocate I want you to know that you are not alone. I want you to know that even though things are hard, you can do hard things. You can heal. There is hope for you. People care about you. You matter. You deserve to take up space in this world. The world will be a sadder place without you here.

Please reach out to a professional if you have serious thoughts of harming yourself or others. I am so proud of you for taking those hard steps. If you need a friend, please reach out.

5 Tips To Improve Your Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health is crucial for overall well-being. Here are five simple yet effective tips to help you improve and maintain good mental health:

1. Prioritize self-care: It’s essential to take time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or practicing mindfulness, carving out time for self-care can significantly impact your mental health.
2. Stay active: Physical exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for your mental well-being. Engaging in regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your self-esteem. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, cycling, or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
3. Connect with others: Building and maintaining a supportive social network is vital for mental health. Whether it’s spending time with family, connecting with friends, or joining a community group, fostering positive relationships can provide a sense of belonging and support during challenging times.
4. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment and acknowledging your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your daily routine can help reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being.
5. Seek professional help when needed: If you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Whether it’s through therapy, counseling, or medication, reaching out for professional support demonstrates strength and resilience in taking control of your mental well-being.

By incorporating these tips into your life, you can take proactive steps to improve your mental health and lead a more fulfilling and balanced life. Remember that small changes can have a big impact, and it’s okay to seek help when you need it. Depression doesn’t need to rule your life.

Do kindness, recklessly.

All my love – Lexie.

I’ve written a few pieces about mental health that you might relate to such as Holiday Stressors, and It’s Okay To Hate Being Pregnant.